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iamdarkness · 2 years ago

Text

Iris

Alfonse x oc Summoner, Lif x oc Summoner

Chapter 4

Dreams

Chapter summary: The dreams continue and Henriette is made aware of a new threat. The house is being rebuilt while the funerals are being planned.

Oly woke to sun on her face. Momentarily she had no recollection of the prior days and wondered why Nanny Bertha had opened the drapes. She wondered if she had lessons then and instantly groaned. She did not want to open yer eyes.

Oly felt the warmth of a body next to her. It felt soft and inviting. She loved sleeping with her mother. She felt like a small kitten next to her mother cat. Her father always felt firm and strong and although both her parents felt very different, she always felt very safe and loved.

She finally opened one eye, when she noticed there was someone else with them on the bed, but it was not big enough to be her father. For a second she thought the letters her parents had sent to the stork had been sent and that the stork had actually brought them a sister. Then when her eyes adjusted, she was met with green eyes starting back at her as well. They were as confused as Oly’s eyes were.

-Sharena? Are you my sister now?

-What?- Asked Sharena even more confused now.

-My sister…the stork sent you to be my sister?

-I…it was the fairies…I think…

-What are you two talking about?- Asked Alfonse getting up from Sharena’s other side. He looked confused as well and was looking around the room.- This is Mother’s chamber…Oh…I remember…

-What did you remember brother? The bad dream?

-I remember.-Chimed in Oly.

-Yes…the bad dream.- Said Alfonse and turned around to hide his eyes that had watered with the memory of his cousin.

-Can we go see father after breakfast?- Asked Sharena.

-Mmmmmmmmmmm five more minutes….God I hate mornings…

The kids turned to Bel. The girls giggled and Alfonse had this face expression between amusement and confusion.

- Mami does not like getting up early…She’s nocturnal…like a vampire.- Giggled Oly. Sharena giggled again.

-I eat little kittens who go to sleep late!- Bel said trying to get any of them with her eyes closed feeling the bed with her hand.- Breakfast…

The kids jumped out of bed. Sharena and Oly squealed with joy and Alfonse laughed out loud, which was strange because he felt like laughing but at the same time he wanted to cry.

-What is a vampire?- Asked Sharena once they were sitting to eat breakfast.

-Bel said it was a made up monster from folklore in her world. They drink the blood of the living and then turn them into vampires and turn themselves into bats….and they dress in black and sleep during the day…umm Oh and they can turn into smoke and animals depending on the civilization the tales come from.

-Wow Alfonse ! You remember all of that? - Asked Sharena in awe.

-I…I like folklore a lot. They seemed interesting. Is that why you like the color black on clothing?- He asked Bel. She laughed momentarily forgetting her sadness.

-Yes I guess in a way, but I have always liked the color along with red and blue…I just don’t look as good in blue.

-Mami you call Daddy vampire…but he does not sleep in the day time.

-Yeah…He’s a morning person…he had to have some imperfection you know…but it is not because of when he sleeps.- The kids look confusedly at her, waiting for her answer. She was not going to tell the kids Alfonse was a biter in bed so she thought of telling them the rest of the reasons. -Your grandfather is a count honey. There is a book about a Count that is a vampire. I tease your father with that.

-So my grandfather is a vampire?- Asks Oly horrified. The question comes just in time for Adrien to arrive.

-I am what?- He asks sitting down at their small table. They were eating on the low table sitting on cushions.

-No Oly. Father have you eaten breakfast? Do you need me to bring you something?

-I have not daughter. I will take some of those pancakes and eggs with sausage.

After they ate breakfast Sharena voiced her wish to visit her father.

-Mami I want to see Papi too.

The time had come for them to tell Oly the truth. Bel thought about allowing Sharena to stay or wait until she was gone. Alfonse decided for her.

-Sister. I think we should wait a moment here with Oly. - He said as he sat by Oly’s side. Sharena looked puzzled, but sat next to him. This was Bel’s cue to start.

-Oly I need you to listen to me. As you know, your Uncle Gustav was injured and he is in bed. Your own grandfather was injured as well but thankfully not as bad.- Oly nodded and took Alfonse’s hand in hers.- People get injured in wars and sometimes they get very injured and they die. You know that right?- Oly nodded.- Your father was very hurt baby. Much more than even uncle Gustav.- Oly’s lower lip trembled but said nothing.- I am afraid he …will not be coming back.

-Daddy is not coming back?…But…He told me he was coming back…He said …He promised… I gave him my lucky bracelet…Mami! I want my Daddy!- She cried and Bel hugged her tight.

-Cry Baby…Cry all you want… it is fine. I am here with you…We are all here for you. We love you.

-Yes we love you Oly.- Said Sharena and she was crying too. She was clinging to Alfonse’s arm.

-Yes Oly. We love you.- Said Alfonse and took her hand. Oly turned to them her lower lip still trembling. And she let go of Bel to be embraced by Sharena And a reluctant Alfonse.

-I…I want my Daddy…

-I know Oly…I can be like your father if you want to. I can…I can protect you…

-Yes Oly. Alfonse is very good at protecting people and…and I can be your sister too if you want to.

-Who is going to take tuck me in to sleep…

-Well my little darling. If you permit me. I can do it every time you need me to do so.- Said Adrien.

-You will grandfather?-

-Of course I will, little one. I love you. You are a piece of me.

-Daddy said …He said I was a piece of his soul and he would always be with me….is that true?

This took Adrien by surprise and Bel who was crying softly hid her face in her hands to not cry loud. It broke her heart to hear her say that and hear her cry. If it had only been her, she would have been able to bear the loss, but having a child, even though it was a blessing it was harder to see them crumble and suffer so.

-Yes. Mi gatita…You are a piece of his soul and mine…and…we…he will always be watching over you…even if you do not see him; he will be there with you. OK?

-OK…

-But you also have your Grandfather and Sharena and Alfonse. Remember that they will be with you but you also have to be with them.

-OK…-Oly said and tried whipping her tears with her sleeves. Bel took out the handkerchief Alfonse had lent her and used it to dry her tears.

Bel knew Oly would not forget the loss of her father but the following hours were spent trying to get her to feel better. At the end it was Oly who suggested they go visit Gustav. Adrien had taken her little hand and Bel walked to her other side. They were walking behind Sharena and Alfonse. Bel had sent Deana to let them know they were coming and had given Oly something for the fever she had gotten with the strong emotions she was dealing with.

They were turning the corner leading to the hallway to the rooms when Henriette and an unknown man turned the corner first.

-Oh! There you are. This is Baron Gulbrandsen, Lord of the Southern lands of Embla. -Henriette said to them hastily and then to the lord.- My Lord, as you already know, this is Earl Andreas Lord of Nibelheilm and this is his daughter Lady Andreas.

The introduction was so fast and so unexpected they were a little speechless for a moment.

-A pleasure….- was all Bel was able to say before Henriette started talking again.

-I apologize for the hasty introduction, but I am afraid we are in a bit of a bind. We were just informed that a large group of Emblan Soldiers come our way. They will arrive in three days time, but a small envoy has arrived already.

-They come for me. I am afraid that by helping you fight on my own I have brought the wrath of the Empire down on me. My punishment surely will be death. My lands and title has already been taken I am sure, along with my remaining daughter Leticia. She will go to live with my relatives.

-Henriette…I think we should talk in privet.- Said Adrien.

-I can take the kids to see Gustav and stay with them.- Said Bel. Henriette looked like she wanted to say something but a quick look down at Oly made her change her mind.

- Of course. I will appreciate it. We follow you Adrien, lead the way.

- I rather also stay close, just in case we need Gustav’s point of view. Let us use the room next door.

Once inside Sharena and Alfonse stood next to the door and waited to be called by Gustav. Bel could have rolled her eyes at such pomposity. Others may call it respect, but it felt wrong to her to treat your kids as if they were servants to be called when needed. She never said anything since it was not her house any way. She was a guest even if she was considered family.

Gustav called both of his kids to get near almost right away. Sharena had been warned where the injuries were and how he looked. Meanwhile Bel sat across from the bed with Oly in her arms. She expected the visit not to be very emotive, so it was a surprise when Gustav tried to sit up and hug Sharena and Alfonse, but got hurt in the process. Oly gasped when she heard him groan and her eyes watered. The healer had gone out of the room and there was no one to help the man.

-Come Oly. Let us help your uncle.

Alfonse and Sharena were trying to help him get back in place but were also scared to touch him and cause him more pain.

-Here let me help you. God! What did they feed you guys that makes you grow so darn tall and ,muscular!…And heavy!-Bel said smiling after she put some more pillows under the man.- I could have used some of it myself.

-Thank you.- Said Gustav and proceeded to hug a very stiff Alfonse and a worried Sharena. Oly was watching them closely. Bel was about to suggest they let them have a moment when Gustav spoke next.- Little Oly. May I have a hug?

Oly Looked up at Bel and she nodded at the girl.- Just be careful not to press right there where you can see bandages.

-Yes Mami.- Oly said and approached the bed. Since this was a guest room, the bed was not as high as the main chambers, but Oly was still too small to climbed by herself so Bel had to sit her by his side the way Sharena had done.- Uncle Gustav…I love you.

-I…I love you too…as much as…- Gustav closed his eyes, and so he did not see Alfonse and Sharena share a look, their eyes wet with tears once again. They had never seen their father this emotional in a long time.

-Your beard is ticking me.- Oly said with a giggle. And scratched her cheek where the beard had been tickling her.

-I do suppose it is very long now.- Said Gustav in an almost shy way.

- It fits you well though. You should keep it. - Said Bel smiling at Gustav.- Oly come. Let us go find the healer and make sure he did not pull a stitch or something. You guys do not let him move again.- Gustav gave a gruff little laugh and Alfonse and Sharena stood there a little bewildered. Oly came down the bed and took Bel’s hand. They met the healer on the way back and Bel was explaining what had happened when they were met with Aleen. The healer went back to Gustav and Aleen proceeded to talk in a whisper.

- My Lady…I have news…but first I wanted to…I …I know how you feel…I…

-Erland? - Aleen lowered her face and nodded. He was dead.- I asked but…no one would tell me. -Aleen looked down at Oly and said nothing more.

- Let me call Deana.

-Oh by the way. We found Nanny Bertha. Chimney sweepers saw her through a hole in the wall and took her with them to the kitchen cellar. That is where they held up with the rest of the kitchen staff who were not able to come down to the library. It was a wise decision to leave the food. They were able to survive thanks to that and the fact that two of the healers were among them.

-Really? Did you hear that Oly?

-Yay!! Can I go see her?

-She is still hurt enough not to work but she can have visits… but we have not told her…

-Oh I see…Oly did you hear? Do not tel her about Papi OK? We can not make her sad right now.

-OK Mami.

Deana was called and they took the kids to see Nanny Bertha. Once Bel thanked her and warned her not to do such a thing again, She stepped outside with Aleen to talk outside the door.

-Aleen…

-It took so long to find him…The dead…they…there were…are piles of bodies…whole and pieces…it is taking them time to …

-Ah…

-Erland was whole thankfully…I am taking his insignia to his mother.- His mother being a widow who lived off the pension of her late husband who was in the military and her son’s salary. Erland was an only child.- But I am afraid we will not be able to take his body…All of them will be buried here or at the town’s cemetery or cremated depending on the costumes. The pieces that can not be identified will be cremated as well.

-Do we have reports from the city? Were they able to evacuate on time?

-Yes. There were a few people who decided to stay. Some made it and some did not. It was them who informed the late King we were being besieged. We really do not have as many …it could have been so much worse Madam. My Lady…it was all thanks to my Lord.

- You don’t know half of it.

-Oh My Lady…I know…there were those who witnessed…they said to me…they said my Lady and it was confirmed by many…the King…he …They say he offered his son as a sacrifice…his own son and My Lord saved the prince….at least that is what they say…

-Gustav told me.

-My Lady…There was a man…he…died…but…Gudrun told me to tell you. There was a man in the infirmary who died early morning and was the royal chamber pot cleaner. He overheard the king telling the priests, he wanted my Lord out of his way, but if Gustav fell it was still in his plans…but he did not say why.

-Wait what? How does Gudrun know this?

- The man was a…Gudrun’s father had an affair and

-Oh…illegitimate son…

-Yes my Lady. Gudrun did not ask for protection but I fear for his life if this reaches the top. If you should ask…because I know you deserve to know… Gudrun wanted to tell you himself but I told him he could take the time to bury his brother. He is currently doing preparations for that.

- Don’t worry. I will not say his name or yours. I am well aware of the dangers. In fact I am very sure I will get my information without they even asking who told me. I am sure Gustav is not the danger and I know for their own good they will keep this quiet, but they WILL tell me the truth …that is if they even know the reasons the King had to want my husband dead.

-There is also the matter of the newcomers. - Aleen looked around again to check no one was overhearing.- Well Gudrun and Feraht talked to some of the soldiers. One of them told them something that seems important.

-What is it?

- Just as you heard. Gudrun had many friends in the village that was first attacked. Some of the soldiers that were in the first incident with the ritual was on guard duty and swears the Lord that comes with the group is one of the person performing the ritual. He told Gudrun there should be documentation and proof about the incident and that they even had sketches of the perpetrators and a pendant that looked to be very valuable.

- We need to let Henriette and Gustav or maybe Adrien may know something and a way to use this…The man said he was going to die…what if we can use this to save him? I am sure Embla did not want to open the door and had their own people die. They knew Hel meant to kill the Empress.

- So anyone helping open the door would be committing treason!- Exclaimed Aleen.

-Exactly! Come we need to tell Gustav. He may know where the files are. I will send my father to talk to the witnesses. Please point them out to him.

Aleen left and Bel checked on the kids before going to see Gustav. She did not want to leave Oly for longer than necessary but she looked happy to be near someone else she loved.

Bel went to see Henriette and Adrien first. They were still in the room next to Gustav’s. She knocked and then entered. The three people went quiet when she arrived.

I am sorry to interrupt but I want to know something….ummm related to your problem Sir.- Bel said to Baron Brandenburg, then turned to Henriette.- Henriette, father, do any of you know where the files about the incident with the ritual to open the Hel Gate are? The official reports I mean. Are they in the capital?

-The…reports? They were sent to Gustav to review and then to the capital to….the king.- Said Adrien.

-Yes! Gustav took them personally to his father, but brought them back to his study for reference.

-They are here?- Asked Bel.

-Yes. Why do you ask?

-A second. Sir. Would you say that opening the Door to the realm of the Dead, knowing Hel would seek to kill the empress, be consider treason for anyone in Embla?

-Yes of course!

- Well this may be your lucky day, because in those files there is some drawings of some of the people who were at the site and we believe at least one of the people that came for you is one of them and we have witnesses too.

- Are you sure?- Asked Adrien.

- I trust the info…information, I came to give the report to my father on their stead, but I think we need to check the files first.Father if you need the witnesses, they are some of the men in the army. Ask Aleen to tell you who they are. Still I think you should go right now to look at the reports I am sure Lord Gulbrandsen will be able to identify the perpetrator.

- Of course. They are in our study. This way.- Henriette said and hurried to the door. She was followed by both men.

-Henriette. I will go tell Gustav and …I also need to ask him some questions before I return to the kids.

-Of course. Thank you.

-Thank you Lady Andreas.

==Oh don’t thank me yet…==

-It is a team effort Sir. I hope the information can help you.

Bel watched them go before she entered Gustav’s room. The healer was not there. She closed the door behind her and locked it silently.

- Gustav. Sorry to bother you. I came for a couple of reasons. I have reasons to believe some of the people who came for the Baron were part of the Death Cult that opened the door. Henriette is getting the files with the drawings. They may save the Baron.

-How do you know this?

- I am just the messenger from the actual witnesses. At least one of the soldiers who were there is here and pointed the guy out.

-Good. We can save a good man and bring the assassins to justice.

-You think we can get Embla to make an extradition so they can be brought to justice here?

- We can hope. I can ask for it.

-Good…Gustav…-Bel took a deep breath and looked the man in the eyes. - Did you know your father wanted my husband dead specifically?

-What do you mean?

- His...someone close to him who died and had nothing to lose told me…He overheard him say he wanted Alfonse dead…but it was fine if you died too…He said it was within his plans. He heard this when he was talking to the priests apparently.

-No…no…why would I know this… We were not allowed to be there when he planned the ritual to seal Hel back inside…He said that? This man?

-Yes. Before he died Gustav. I don’t think he was lying. Gustav… When you told me you thought he wanted you dead… he really was hoping for Alfonse to save you…I did not want to ask why your father would want you dead in the first place… I thought it was family matters and as concern as I was for you I felt it was not my place to ask, but now it is my business.- Gustav listened bewildered still by the news but concentrated and thought for a minute.

-He had his heir. A young heir he could manipulate. With me out of the picture he would be able to send Henriette away and keep Alfonse.

(gasp) ==That was why Henriette wanted to protect Alfonse!? She understood this would happen if Gustav died! She just never thought it would be intentional…but why…==

-I see…So why could he want my Alfonse dead?

Gustav looked away and swallowed.

- I did not think my father would get to this length…He was very unhinged at the end it appears…He was ever the obsessed man over his work. Sometimes fanatical about our history. He wanted to be a hero to his people.This was the reason we did not tell him the truth until the end. Did Henriette give you a weapon to defend yourself?

-Yes. It is in her room.

-It is a sacred weapon that only one person can use. This person is never of this world.

-…

-We found a diary in a hidden study. It belongs to the first King Lif. Do you know who he was?- He asks.

- I’ve read about him.==I was married to his number one fan, of course I know who he was. ==- Bel thought. She herself found him a very interesting person and the passion for Askran history Alfonse showed had rubbed off on her.

- In the diary there were instructions on how to get the weapon that rested in his tomb. There were instructions on how to call the hero the weapon belongs to. Henriette…called you those years ago. We did not know the ritual had worked until we heard my cousin Alfonse was getting married and he told us you were not of any of the known worlds.

-So…that gun is mine? But why call me… I mean I am not complaining…just…I would like to know.

-The hero is usually called during war time…Henriette…just wanted to try and see if it worked. We thought it had been a mistake but we could not do anything to fix it because by then you were already willing to stay and was…well already married to Alfonse. We were mistaken but by the fact that we could not see the truth and tell you the truth as well. Hel came and we were not ready.

-You mean to say that gun is strong enough to kill Hel?

-In theory, but that is not the main purpose. You see, that weapon is suppose to summon heroes from other worlds and they are supposed to obey you. You are the chosen hero. The legendary Summoner of Askr who can summon heroes and make contracts with them to fight for you. Those heroes form an army that along with our army could finish Hel.

-Oh…It could have been useful. Why didn’t you tell me…wait…Alfonse knew this? Because he said to me something weird. He asked me to promise him that no matter what I heard I would take my child with me and protect her…almost like someone would try to convince me otherwise.

-He did not know until the day you were attacked. I suppose he was referring to us telling you to fight . We did not tell you before because…- He sighs.-We did not want my father to know. We knew what would happen if he knew… and we were right. I did not think he would go to this length. The reason my father wanted Alfonse dead was because he wanted to control you and your power.

-Alfonse is dead…because of me? How did he know? Who told him?-Bel’s eyes welled up with unshed tears.

-No! Bel…it is not your fault…it is…It IS MY fault…mine alone. I failed my cousin in every way possible. The truth is that it was thanks to you that we were able to rescue you all to begin with. Hel wanted to…Kill the heirs of Lif and that means that she wanted my son dead. That was the reason Hel was besieging the castle. My father was not interested in rescuing you. We did not know Hel was here because he would not even let anyone send any more messenger and much less people. It was the garrison we left in the city who informed us. For my father, coming to rescue you was a waste Bel… it pains me to say this about my father…but I told Henriette you needed to know…as ugly a truth as this is. My father was convinced that the most important part of this war was to protect the cities in the South and contain Hel here. Except the dead kept coming but Hel was nowhere to be found. At the time he did not know who you were, my father was willing to let my family die since I am young enough to…-He paused. Bel made and angry noise and tears started rolling down her cheeks. She was disgusted and about to comment something but Gustav kept on going.

- Alfonse was very worried and very angry and understandably so. I heard him telling the most loyal of his men to get ready and I knew he was about to rescue you. This was my chance to save my own family so I prepared myself and wrote a note …that was my mistake…I wrote a note to my father to be given to him much later. I wrote to him about you. I knew he would do what ever he could to get to you and rescue you once he knew who you were. My idea was that I would go with Alfonse and use his plan. I believed whatever he would come up with would work but I wanted to make sure to have my father come to rescue you and be a distraction or back up. I did not get to tell Alfonse the plan, because the note was given to my father right away before we could make it out of camp. It is thanks to you my children, my family is safe…I owe you…so much…and Alfonse…

-You should have known every one would be on your father’s side…

-You are right…I have no excuse but the faith I had in my servants and how foolishly I thought something like this would pass under his notice.If it helps…Adrien had my servant executed …I wanted to do it myself…but he had the right to do it.

-I wish I could hate you all…I can’t even do that…I have nothing…not one to take out this anger I feel …

-I would not blame you if you hated me…but please do not hate Henriette, she…it is not her fault.

-I don’t hate you…do you think I don’t know…how your father treated you. Gustav… you were the only one who could not see…it is not your fault…my Alfonse loved you enough to give his life for you…I have to go. I don’t want Oly to be alone…Is there something else I should know?

Gustav looked at the ceiling and thought about it. He had thought about telling her everything he knew but the truth would only get worse and he did not want to involve his son in this more than he already had. If something happened between them, which he was sure was a slim chance by what Henriette had told him, then it would be something natural. He had to lie once again and he hated himself for it.

-No. Not that I remember.

-Fine…I better go now.

-Bel? Where is his sword? - He asked suddenly.- Henriette said to me that she saw Alfonse holding it.

-Yes…he…I don’t know why he asked to hold it for me for the night…I don’t know where he put it. I have not seen it since. He must have seen…I think he…I think he thinks I was going to…I will let him keep it for now…- She said looking at her feet. She had just realized what she had been about to do last night and was ashamed of herself. Gustav’s eyes widen at the confession.

-Oh…Yes. I am sure he will care for it. He is a very responsible young man.

-Yes he is…I owe him more than I can pay…-Bel said and left the room. Gustav was left wondering the situation. He felt tears roll down to wet the bandages still covering his face. He had never cried this much in his life and he had never felt such shame and gilt.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~

Alfonse looked at Oly. Just like with Bel he was afraid for her. He remember the last time his father had played with him and how he felt the day his grandfather had told him, he was not a child anymore to ask his father to play with him. His father had never been the same since. For years he had felt like his heart was inside a place that the light of the sun could not reach. He had never told Sharena when she was finally allowed to interact more with him, that she had been like a light in a dark tunnel. He did not want for Oly to feel that way.

Oly was smiling at her nanny but not as brightly as she always did. He found himself looking at her big dark eyes. They were big intelligent lights that seemed to sparkle even more than his blue ones. He wondered how she managed to make black look brighter than blue and came to the conclusion that she must have a mysterious magic hidden inside. It must be something like that because every time he was with her and she touched his hand or said something kind to him he would feel like his stomach was dancing and his face felt very hot.

He turned to the door to see Bel coming inside the room quietly. Her eyes were red. He immediately told himself she had been crying away from Oly just like he sometimes did to not upset Sharena. Her full attention was on Oly who was telling nanny Bertha about the books he had found in other languages in the basement library and all the stories she had been able to tell them.

-Right Sharena?

-Yes. Alfonse said it was e very old language called Latin but he is still studding it and could not translate it all.

-Ah! And did my Lord bring the books with him?

Alfonse looked at the smiling face of nanny Bertha when he heard her mention him.- No. I left them in the place I found them at, but I already asked for permission to go back after the…after the place is safe to enter it again. I can not go by myself.

-Mami and I can go with you Alfonse! And Sharena can come and we will be a lot of people and will be very safe together. Right Mami!

-Yep! As long as your mother says it is fine to go inside we can go. We can take Aleen and Feraht with us.

- My Lady… I wanted to ask how my Lord is.

-Um…Oh he is not in the castle.- Said Bel avoiding Bertha’s eyes. Instead she looked at Oly who was looking down at her hands. She was about to suggest they leave before Oly started crying and Bertha suspected something was up, when she heard Alfonse speak.

-Oly? Maybe we should let your nanny Bertha rest.- He said holding Oly’s hand in his. Oly raised her face to look at him and was met with a very sweet shy smile. She could not help feel good every time he smiled at her and so she smiled back and nodded.

-Can we go play at the central garden yet?- Asked Sharena. Feraht said they could and they all left the room after giving nanny Bertha their thanks for saving them and hugged her.

Adrien came to them after lunch time. He looked upset and asked to talk to Bel. The meeting with the Emblan group had gone mostly as planned. Henriette had been awesome it seems and together they had managed to lift the Baron’s death sentence and had given the files to the Commanding General who was the head of the group. Since he was in charge of the case he had assured them that the sentence would only be given for disobeying direct orders not to cross the border and such. The most the Baron would get was to be stripped of his place in line for the throne.The general had apprehend two of the three Sect members in their group.

==” The heir and his bitch will die for this! Lif and his Summoner will die!!!”== Adrien Shivered at the memory of what the man had screamed at him when he was being taken prisoner. His eyes were those of a madman.

- I am afraid one of them escaped daughter…and…I also fear they know who you are.

-What do you mean?

-They know you are the Summoner of Askr. They will seek to destroy you.

-The …Oh…how do they even know? I didn’t even know until like two hours ago! Did everyone know except for me?

-There must be a sect member among us and I am afraid this person overheard either one of our conversations or the King’s…The truth is…the King was overly enthusiastic about you…he told me several times during the battle how sorry he was to have not met you personally. Someone must have heard him. Daughter if you are in danger, then surely Oly is as well.

-Oh Hell no! No one is going to touch my baby!

-We have to leave.-Said Adrien. -The funeral will be the day after tomorrow.

-Father…

-I know. There is nothing to bury and no reason to stay. We will hold a ceremony at home. For him and our fallen people.

-OK. That sounds better. Do you think Henriette would let us take Sharena and Alfonse with us for a time? I don’t want Oly to be alone. Being with them is good for her and I am sure Henriette has a lot to do now that the Kingdom is mostly on her shoulders. They will have no time for the kids and they have been neglected long enough.

- I am sure she will agree with you. - Adrien looked at the kids playing tag. They were not even aware of the plume of smoke from the funerary pyres in the family graveyard. Alfonse looked so much like his son. Henriette had told him Gustav had talked to Bel about everything but their belief that Alfonse was the reincarnation of the first king Lif and their bond as his Summoner. She had also told him Bel had tried to end her life and Alfonse had stopped her. Adrien understood her too well but he also had instructed Feraht to keep an eye on her. He did not think she would try something again, but wanted to be sure of it. He though he would not be able to withstand losing another family member. This situation had him wondering too. How close were Bel and little Alfonse? There was a sure connection between them. He could plainly see it but to him it seemed that they loved each other like mother and child.

Henriette was too busy with official businesses, the military and Gustav to care for some other matters, so Bel had taken over the house hold cleaning and the kids had been with her most of the time helping out in their own way. Manual work took her mind off of her dark thoughts, just like before, when she was little.

That night they all slept together again. Gustav had been moved to his chamber and Henriette would sleep on her room. They were connected by the parlour. Bel took the kids to the room Alfonse and her used every time they came to visit. The bed was big enough for the four of them. The night was beautiful and stars filled the sky and yet the kids woke up again from the same nightmare. Feraht who was sleeping on the floor by the hearth was up in an instant and offered to bring the kids tea or something to sooth them. He went out and as the girls wailed and cried, Bel noticed Alfonse was in shock.

-It was a bad dream! My babies come here. I am here you are safe. Alfonse…Alfonse?- Bel asked the motionless kid.

-It is the same dream…again…

-The library?

-No…I…I …saw…I saw…

-Brother? Did you dream of her too?

-I…I saw him…but I could not help him and …

-Brother?

-Alfonse? Who did you see?

-I..-Alfonse was about to answer but looking at Oly he shut his mouth and after a moment he added.- The man who was screaming…

-Who was it brother? I heard him too, but I don’t know who he is.

Oly was crying softly and listening intently at the two siblings. It was a shock for her to see Alfonse this scared, but she understood it. The woman in the dream was scary enough to make anyone cry.

-Madam?- Came a voice came from the door.

Everyone looked up when they recognized the owner. It was nanny Bertha.

-Bertha? What are you doing up? You should be recovering!- Said Bel still holding Oly and Sharena to her bosom and Alfonse’s hand.

-I was tired of laying down. I was coming to check on you and bumped into that young man. He looked very flustered and worried, so I asked and he told me everything.- Said the older woman. She walked up to sit on the bed, closer to Alfonse and looked them all over.-Hmp…you think you can hide stuff from me. I helped raise your husband. I have you know that I know well Lord Andreas’ moods and gestures enough to know what is going on. Why did you not tell me the truth? Come here Oly.. You too Sharena.- Bertha took a handful of the two sobbing girls and hugged them. Then looked up to a very chastised Bel and gave her a look that said to pay attention to the quiet boy. Bel looked at Alfonse. He looked so small and frightened. She hugged him as well and felt him flinch.

-Nanny! My Daddy!…- Sobbed Oly and Sharena cried louder.

-There, there, my dears. Alfonse loved you and protected you till the end. There is no bigger proof of his love to you. He will be watching you still along with Lord Askr.- At this Bel felt Alfonse stiffen.

- I need to…I need to …go…cousin Bel can I go…I need your help with… - Alfonse said quietly.

Bel nodded and Alfonse got off the bed and hurried to the bathroom with Bel following behind. When she entered he looked out of the door to the still crying girls, then closed the door.

-I had the same dream they did…- Alfonse said looking at his feet. He had no shoes on, only his socks.- I did not want to scare them any more that they were already. Why did we dream the same thing?

-I don’t know why, but it is strange, and if you had the same dream again then..

-It was not entirely the same…this time I did not die right away…

- Excuse me …WHAT? What did you say? Why didn’t you tell me?

-I…I was going to but…Do not be angry…I did not want to bother you, because you were very busy.

-No Alfonse. I am not angry at you. I am worried and I thought we were friends.- He nodded and looked more at ease.- Alfonse you know your mother and father are busier than most parents and that is why you do not see them as much as other kids may do, and I am afraid they will be even busier when your father becomes king, but I want you and Sharena to know that no matter how busy I am; you can always talk to me because you two and Oly are my priority. Do you understand?

-Yes.

-Good. Now please tell me about the dreams…both of them.

-The first dream was just like the others said…We were playing and happy and then…then She came… It is a …woman…but she is not human. You can see her bones inside… she is made of lilac colored crystal and the bones are inside her…She ran so fast at me and…I know she killed me because I could see myself on the ground dead and I was watching her take Sharena but I could do nothing about it. I screamed but no sound came from me…but I could hear Oly crying for me and Sharena. I tried moving but I felt like I was trying to swim on …tar…Oly…She was standing there but I am sure she could not move… I also could hear Sharena crying for me to help her, but after a moment her screams ceased and there were new screams. It was a man. He was screaming as if he was being tortured.

-I see.

-Tonight…the dream started the same but…we were not playing we…we knew what was coming and we huddled together. I stood at the front of the other to protect them…and she did not… this time she took me instead of Sharena but when we reached the edge of the fores, it was not the forest anymore. It look like a dark stone room and …it was very dark but I could see him…It was cousin Alfonse…I could not see what she was doing because she was behind me holding me by the shoulders, but he was in pain and she was laughing at him and she said “You are next!”. And that is when I woke up. I could do nothing to help him…I just stood there watching, unable to move from fear…

Bel hugged Alfonse when she noticed he was trying very hard not to cry.

-Alfonse, you can cry. What you are telling me sounds horrible and scary and it is alright that you were scared. It is very understandable… Don’t be ashamed.- She wanted to reassure him that it was just a dream, but she could not. Alfonse was not told Hel had taken his uncle. He did not know and here he was telling her all of this. She was praying it was just a dream because the thought of Hel taking Alfonse to torture him was the most horrible thing she had ever heard of and the feeling of uselessness she felt was going to drive her insane.- Do you want to stay here a while?- Alfonse was thinking about it when they heard a knock on the door.

- My Lady a word? I need to talk to you.- Bel heard Bertha say from behind the door. Alfonse dried his tears and nodded. She opened the door and Bel saw that Deana was in the room now with Feraht, serving tea. Bertha came inside and closed the door.

- My lady. Were you able to see Hel before you went into the library?

-No. Why?

- Your Highness? How did the woman in the dream looked like?- Bertha asked. Alfonse answered. He described even the dress she was wearing and the sound of her laugh. Bertha’s face became white as a sheet and looked sick.

- My Lady. Before I was taken to the pantry where we were hiding in, we were able to see her through a window. That woman the children are dreaming of is Hel.

-And she has my uncle!- Alfonse said.- She is hurting him.- He added angrily. He did not look as scared but angry. Bertha looked at him and then at Bel.

-There is something not many know about this and I did not tell Alfonse.The reason we did not have a wake for Alfonse the way I would have wanted and the reason his coffin will be empty is, because we don’t have his body …Hel took his body when she left…There was no way for them to know this…- Bertha looked about to vomit and Alfonse looked a little lost and overwhelmed by emotions. Bel drew him in again for another hug.

- We need to talk to Henriette. She must know more about this, or she could point us towards research about it.I just don’t know if we should tell my father.

-Lord Andreas is very strong and wise. We should not hide it from him.

-Good. We tell him tomorrow…but not Oly. Let us get some tea. Do you feel better Alfonse?- Asks Bel. Alfonse thinks about it and then nods, lets go of Bel and opens the door. Bel stops him and asks him to let her see his injured shoulder. She had seen him flinch when she touched him there and the uninjured one. His partially healed shoulder was an angry red again and there were bruises forming on both his shoulders as if someone had gotten hold of him forcefully. Bel showed the bruising to Bertha who paled at the sight and made some signs of protection just the way Bel had seen her do when she was talking about something evil. It reminded Bel of crossing oneself, the way her grandmother used to do.

-It was her…What if he is alive aunt Bel?

-==I wish!== Your father saw him die and… his sacrifice sealed Hel again. There is no possibility of him being alive.- Bel told Alfonse tears rolling down her cheeks. Alfonse nodded and lowered his face. He was a little ashamed to be seen crying again.-I better take him to a healer and show Henriette.- Bel dried her tears and Alfonse’s so she could go out to talk to the girls.

-Show her first my lady. I will keep Oly and Sharena busy.

Bel went out and went to kiss Oly and then Sharena and explained to them that she had to take Alfonse to the healer because he had aggravated his shoulder and was in pain.

Oly and Sharena looked worried and for a moment they forgot about the dream while both of them asked various questions about his wound. Bel reassured them that they were going to fix him right up and that they would come back as soon as possible.

Bel and Alfonse went to Henriette’s room first. Bel knew she was tired but she should know about it and wanted her to see for herself while the bruises were still fresh and the memory. She was very worried about the kids but as nanny Bertha said Alfonse was the only one getting hurt.

As expected Henriette looked like she had not slept in days. Bel understood but as much as she wanted to just take care of this problem by herself she did not want to commit the mistake of leaving Henriette in the dark for longer than necessary. This was not a regular problem.

-Henriette. I am sorry to come to you at this hour. I know you are tired, but I think you should know this. It is very important.- Henriette was looking both at Bel and at Alfonse in quiet curiosity but also tiredness. She noticed Bel was holding Alfonse’s hand in both of hers in such a caring way. She let them in and lead them to the adjacent parlour.- The kids…the three of them had the same nightmare for the past two nights…and this night. Alfonse woke up to this.- Bel shows Henriette the finger bruises already turning green and purple. - Guess who they’re dreaming of…

- How is this possible?!- Exclaims Henriette horrified.

-Sit down let us tell you the dream as told by each of the kids. I also need to take him to the healers.

Bel and Alfonse each told Henriette the dreams in detail. Henriette seemed to grow more worried with each word Alfonse said about his last dream. She got up to inspect the bruises and Bel could see her eyes water.

-How about you? Any bad dreams?- Henriette said going to her nightstand and getting vial of some liquid.

-Me? No…My mind is a black hole as of now. I usually don’t dream when I grieve like this for some reason…It is like dreams just can’t penetrate the darkness in my mind.- Said Bel watching Henriette apply a salve on Alfonse’s wound and bruises. Alfonse knitted his brows. Her statement seemed wrong for him somehow even when she said in in such a casual way.

- I suppose that darkness is shielding you from her attack. This is very concerning…It may help to give them a dreamless potion before going to sleep…

-That sounds like putting a band-aid on a bullet wound… I mean a …sword wound..a deep one…- Henriette looked at her puzzled.- I mean the intrusions may, stop but only as long as they take it and …I mean that is harmful for the mind on a long period of time and what we need is for the actual attacks to stop. The information on how she is doing it and why. What are the implications of this?…She is sealed but she has enough power to influence the dreams of the living…and harm people! Was this possible before? Have you heard about this?

-You are right…Let me think…

-Wait…maybe it was possible but not with us per say. This may be the way she talks to her followers. I mean…it seems feasible that they have some kind of connection with her or something.

-…Perhaps…Let me see what I remember from the information given to us by the Elders.- Henriette looks pensively at Alfonse for a while; her mind rummaging for stored information.-…I think.. no but that is only possible with a potion…a special potion …A potion that would have to be administered…by someone close…someone very close…

- Father thinks…we have a spy…or many…- Bel tell Henriette, pauses then ads curious.-Tell me about this potion.

-When we were doing research at the village the door is located, the village elders gave us a lot of information. The officers never believed any of it and well to be honest neither did Gustav….but it is my responsibility to write everything the way it is told to me so I have all the reports including the village elder’s accounts and information. If I remember correctly the potion requires …oh…

-What?

-Come to the library!…No wait I remember I left them here…Let me see…- She went and rummaged in her wardrobe. There was a wooden box, bigger than a shoebox but not decorated at all. It looked very out of place inside the ornate furniture.- I have them here. The papers…- She reached inside the box where a great number of papers were stored. She read through a couple.- Here! Umm…The ritual needed to contact Hel was discovered by one of the guardians about seven hundred years ago, but not one on our side has ever tried it because, if this were to be a true means of communication, conducting it would alert the enemy that we know about it and they may try to shield us from using it again so it has been left as a last resort kind of plan…I am not sure why the elder would think that contacting Hel would be helpful to us.

-So not one person has tried it but supposedly this is what the enemy use to talk to her?

-Correct.

-But what is it that the potions needs?

-Oh yes! Umm… it is told that the potion needs an item from the person they need to contact. Blood or even a piece of clothing worn by her…but also something like blood or hair from the person contacting Hel so it can establish a link between them.

-Huh…Good we have the means and now we are left wondering the reason. What do you think Alfonse?

-Me?

-Sure! Fresh mind and a very astute one too. -Bel says.. She knows how smart the kid is and she has noticed he was very focused in what the two of you were saying. Alfonse blushes.

-Umm…well you said there is a spy. If someone gave us the potion to contact Hel…it means they are more visions rather than dreams right?- Bel nodded.- The same person must know why he or she is doing it? If we trap the spy, we can understand their reasons. And they have to be someone that handles the food or drinks…and someone who can take something from us…like hair.

-Of course! See? That was great help.- Bel tell Alfonse who smiles shyly. Henriette watches this in silence and smiles.- Never anger someone who handles your foods or drinks. That was my mother’s motto.

After some speculation as of who it may be that was spying on them and some planing they left Henriette. She would tell Gustav in the morning. Alfonse felt his wound hurt less and he even felt good about himself for helping out.

They went back to the room and after some reassuring that Alfonse was fine and that he just needed some balm and some pain medication they went back to sleep. Deana gave them some dreamless sleep potion and the dream did not come back.

The next day Bel and Alfonse got Adrien up to date while the girls were getting ready to go get breakfast. By this time most of the people had returned to the city and the less injured people were leaving for town. The repair had started on the broken walls and the preparations for the royal funerals were ongoing.

Adrien wanted to leave and so did Bel but after the talk they both came to the conclusion that whatever the cult was trying to do to the kids , it would not stop just because they were away in the mountains. It was better for them to wait and see who the spies were.

All the time Adrien was directing the Army, Bel spent helping oversee the housework and repairs. She was being aided by Nanny Bertha and the kids who were eager to help. Bel would make it so that the kids were occupied and learned while doing it.

She was asked if she wanted to anything special for Alfonse’s funeral. She really did not want anything to do with the funeral, but thought that since they did not know what she did they would think she did not care about it, therefore she asked only for his favorite flowers to be arranged over his coffin and a small bouquet for each of them to hold. Henriette however told her Alfonse deserved the most respect and told her Gustav wanted something special for him. Bel told her about the flag ceremony done back home.

The funeral was that afternoon. The kids had been so tired of running around the house and helping that Bel let them have a nap. She sat with them on a checkered blanket and prepared a little lunch under the big oak tree. After they ate they started to nod off and Bel let them go to sleep. She sat with her back to the tree trunk where just days before her husband had died. In truth it had been just on the opposite side of the tree. She tried her best to think of the happy memories she had lived here and not of imagining his last moments. She would have taken the kids somewhere else but Oly had asked to do it here. She had said that the tree looked very lonely.

- Mami. Why is the tree crying?- The voice brought Bel back from her memories. She opened her eyes to see Oly standing by her side looking around the tree trunk.

-What is it Mija?

-The tree is crying…I heard it in my dream and it woke me up.

-I am awake and I did not hear it cry mija. It was probably just in the dream.

-It sounded like Papi… but he sounded very sad. He said your name and then mine…but when I peeked around the tree the sound was gone…

-What else did you dream about? Did you see something?

-Oh I dreamed I was going to eat ice cream but my teeth were stuck and then Sharena came and she gave me a goldfish and it turned into a bird!

-Well that sounds like a very normal dream…- Bel says relieved.

-Mami! Fish can’t fly!- Oly said and giggled.

-Girl! I’m talking about nightmares. So you slept better here?

-Yes mami. I want to go back to sleep. If you hear the tree tell me mami.

-Si mija.

Oly laid down by Sharena’s left side and went back to sleep. Bel let them sleep until it was time to get ready for the funeral. The rest of the Royal army had been able to finally reach the city and were ready to to take the body of the King to the capital where he and Alfonse would get a Hero’s welcome at the capital. The idea was discarded when they found out Gustav was unable to be moved and the bodies had been exposed to decay by the high temperatures and humidity. To be honest not one had thought to place him inside the library where they would be cool and dry and the spell would keep him for a longer time.

Bel suggested it to Adrien while they were getting ready. She suggested to place Erland, Njal and Sven’s bodies there to be taken to the mountains. Adrien told her Njal was too damaged to have been preserved and Sven was not found complete. His own retainers had been killed and he had not the heart to tell her how he had found them. Erland would be the only one complete but all of them would be cremated for the ceremony at home.

The funeral was as expected. Formal and respectful. Bel had dressed herself and Oly on those dresses Alfonse liked so much. Unlike Earth, Askr did not required black clothes for funerals or to indicate mourning .

Gustav could be seen slowly making his way to the graveyard at the front of the procession along with Henriette, the priests and the guards. Adrien, Bel and the Kids followed behind them even though closer family members had arrived to the city for the funeral. Henriette had not invited any of them to stay at the house since it was still being repaired.

Bel’s own town home had been used to house Gustav’s aunt on his mother’s side. The older lady was like a mother to Gustav since his own had died when he was young due to a miscarriage. His only living sister was married to a duke who owned lands in the Southern part of Askr. She had three kids of her own that Gustav had only seen twice. She was too far South to be able to come to the funeral even if they had taken his father to the capital. His father had married again, to a woman younger than Gustav in an effort to have more children. This marriage however had remained fruitless until his wife had died in an accident some years ago. Gustav had liked her quiet demeanor and suspected his father had been a tyrant to her inability to bear him another child.

Gustav was tired but he could not show weakness now. It was not even to keep appearances or protocols. He suspected after talking to Henriette, Adrien and Bel that the spies were around waiting for the right time to spring into action. He also wanted to be his best for the sake of respect to his cousin. Gustav was too angry with his father to care about his funeral or paying respect at this point, but it was his cousin’s funeral too and he deserved all the respect from everyone.

With Bel’s information; the Royal Army had been able to arrange the traditional tributes and the added ritual Bel had chosen. Alfonse’s coffin was covered with the Askran flag and also Gustav’s own Royal flag to let everyone know he had saved him. This honor was only given to the royal line or heroes of great importance. In contrast the King’s coffin had only been covered with a flower arrangement. Gustav could already see the people from the city who had come for the funeral talking, but he could not bring himself to care about it. His father did not even deserve to be buried in the family cemetery much less to be buried with honors, but he would not sully the commoner’s cemetery or the rest of his family’s honor because of him. Adrien had asked him to keep quiet about the incident. He did not want more attention over his family and he would keep that promise.

His side ached like nothing ever had hurt him before. It was strange because he had had broken ribs before but never had he felt such pain. His suspicions were confirmed when the royal healers told him his wounds were not mending correctly. In fact they were not mending at all. He does not have the heart to tell Henriette as of yet, so he toils on down the road to the family graveyard while the quiet sobs of one small child breaks his heart even more. He is not brave enough to look back at Bel and much less Oly who bravely wanted to walk and just hold on to her mother’s and Sharena’s hands.

Once in the graveyard they went to put his father to rest. He performed the traditional ceremony but bypassed some of the things he could. His father was buried in the newest mausoleum in the cemetery farthest from the center. They then passed to bury his cousin empty coffin in a separate place. It felt to him like it was a dishonor to have them buried together. He knew he was not there but inside the coffin rested one of his favorite books, training swords and other personal belongings. Gustav had ordered to have King Lif’s own mausoleum opened to have his memory rest there.

That had been a surprise on Adrien and he knew that was not only an honor but also a defiance on Gustav’s part. With this , his first act as King he was defying tradition and destiny.

Adrien looked down at the now prince Alfonse. The child looked on at the mausoleum with awe and respect, but he saw in his eyes a sadness and loneliness he remember seeing before, not only on the mirror but on his own son Alfonse when his wife had passed away. A loneliness and sadness only Bel and Oly had dissipated.

When the coffin was laid on one of the carved niches inside the tomb Adrien, Bel and Oly were to enter the tomb and leave the flowers over the coffin, but Oly had taken hold of Alfonse and he had to enter with them and Sharena had followed too.

Adrien noticed then Oly left her bouquet, but kept a flower with her and so did Bel who was even reluctant to leave the flowers there. At the end two officers were suppose to come inside and fold the flags. The officers made way and Gustav and Henriette came inside instead in what was the outmost show of respect. Together they folded the first flag and handed it to Adrien and then the second one and handed it to Bel. Bel looked down to the royal crest on her white, royal blue and gold expanse. This flag was only given to other members of royalty and Bel was sure it would go to Adrien. She thought it meant she was now the Viscountess and left it at that.

They filed out of the tomb reluctantly. Bel with the flag hugged to her heart and holding Oly with the other. She looked back to see Gustav standing by the coffin. He looked so sad.

After the funeral Bel took Oly to the garden and stood by the ancient tree trunk. Alfonse had followed with Sharena in tow and they stood by their side as mother and child left the flowers by the tree trunk. Bel had told him this had been the place where his cousin had fallen. As he watched both his cousin and Oly, Alfonse came to the realization. The dreams had started by this tree… and now he understood the connection.

AN: By this point you probably realized this is a self ship in a way, so the memories from Bel's life are actually my own along with the feelings and personality. My precious Oly is my best friend whom has adopted me as mother since I am a mother hen friend to her. XD

#feh #feh alfonse #feh lif #feh alfonse x summoner #feh lif x summoner #feh alfonse x oc #feh lif x oc #self ship #lif #alfonse #fe alfonse #fe lif

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iamdarkness · 2 years ago

Text

Iris

Chapter 3.

The Oak Tree

Lif/ Oc Alfonse/Oc

We take a look at how the war is going outside the fortress walls. Hel comes.

Gustav stood next to his cousin Alfonse, looking at the endless ranks of the undead. They had been fighting the dead for days and had had no glimpse of Hel as of yet. They had hoped their families had escaped in time, but they had received an Owl messenger from the men they had left to protect the city, letting them know the castle was besieged. Alfonse had come up with a rescue attempt but the King refused. He had ordered them to keep their post holding off the dead from marching South to the bigger cities. Strategy wise this was the better decision if it wasn’t for his actual heirs being besieged.

Then on the fifth day when Alfonse had thought of the unthinkable and was planing to desert the Royal Army with a group of other soldiers to rescue the besieged; a group from Embla had come in peace. It was a Baron, Lord of the Southern lands of Embla. His daughter had been the one the dead had kidnapped.

The Lord had asked to join them in battles and his personal army to help out. His hopes of finding his daughter alive were nonexistent but he wanted to end Hel for the sake of all the people Hel had killed at the kidnapping, including his wife. He was risking banishment and certain death by allying with Askr, but it did not matter to him anymore. His youngest daughter was safe with the only living relative he had. She would understand when she grew up.

Alfonse left the meeting with new hopes. The King had more allies to help and so he could leave without regrets. He could face the shame and the punishment when he came back. He called his retainers and told them to inform the other to be ready to leave.

He was preparing his horse when Gustav came to talk to him.

-Cousin. Wait.

-No Gustav I have waited long enough. I understand the strategic value of holding the horde from the rest of the Kingdom. Don’t you think I do not know the King? He knows you are young and strong. I have heard him talking to you. He thinks you can marry again and have more children Gustav. Maybe to you that is the right path, but MY family is not spendable. - It had sicken Alfonse to have overheard the King talking to Gustav of forgetting his family. Alfonse knew the King did not even like Henriette and had not liked the match to begin with, so this was even of help to him. He would finally get rid of the influence Henriette had over Gustav.

-Neither is mine. I did not come to stop you. I will go with you…but Alfonse…I had to leave him a letter to explain that …- Gustav started but was cut short

-Your Highness! The king wants to speak to you and to you as well General Andreas.- Said a solder. Alfonse looked at Gustav. His eyes closed in obvious annoyance and he sighted in defeat.

-You told him.

-I left him a message with an attendant. He was supposed to wait until we left.

-(sigh) Gustav…

They entered the tent where the King was waiting for them alongside Earl Andreas. The king did not waste his time in chitchat.

-So your wife went behind your back and summoned the legendary hero and you two had the gal to keep this from me?

-Father. I did not see a reason.

-You did not see a reason? She summoned the hero during peaceful times. Did you not stop to thing what it meant? Let me tell you in case you did not think about this. It meant war was coming, but not on our time. It meant the King is among us now! How old is your son Gustav?

-Ten years old Your Majesty.

-You called her at least six years early and managed to have the seal to the Realm of the Dead weaken before time. Since you tried to hide your mistake instead of working to salvage the situation now we are left weakened and without a hero army and with the Hero in danger no less. I suppose she does not even know who she is supposed to be to us?

-No Sir.

- Did you two know?- Asked the King turning to Lord Andreas and Alfonse.

-They did not know until the day before the attack father.

-I was not talking to you Gustav. - He said to Gustav, then he turned to Alfonse,-I knew you would not have married the hero if you had know Alfonse. It is not your fault, I just needed to hear it from your lips son. I see now why Hel is wasting so much effort and power on a siege to a fortress holding only a couple of people. She is after the Summoner and your son.

-Alfonse. His name is Alfonse.- Said Gustav through his teeth barely containing his anger.

-Yes. Who would have thought the reincarnation of the first King Lif would be my grandson.-The King said smiling now. Alfonse wanted to throw up. It was sickening to hear how he had not given any thought to his family just a mere hour ago and now…- This is such an honor Gustav, and you have not even been a good father to him, have you? Wasting your time with that wife of yours gallivanting around the Kingdom doing “research”.- Although Gustav knew this was true to an extent, his father’s cutting words hurt more for their truth.

- How much older than Alfonse is she? Some then years?- No one answered him. Lord Andreas was livid mirroring his son Alfonse. Gustav was red in the face and could not trust himself to talk.- Ten years are nothing. In fact she will be ready sooner to give us an heir. - Alfonse looked at his father who looked about to speak. He motioned for him to be quiet. He was not about to lose his family, but this was not the place to fight. Not when the king had the people and power to save them.-We march as soon as we are all ready. I already gave the order. You are dismissed.

The three men walked out furious. It was just as Alfonse suspected.

-This is the reason we kept quiet about this...but at least the news had the right effect. My apologies cousin. Only something this important to the kingdom would have moved my father.

-Well it worked… and now I will have to worry about having to lose my wife to your ten ear old son.

-We will work on that after we rescue them.- Said Lord Andreas because Alfonse was too angry to speak further and Gustav looked about to be sick.

Alfonse was angry, but it was anger towards the King who looked like nothing except his obsession with the kingdom and King Lif was important. Gustav had done nothing but work restlessly for the benefit of the Kingdom even at the expense of his own family and yet the King had never given him a word of praise. To the King, Gustav was doing the bare minimum of work; and it was all a reflection of his dislike for Henriette, not because she was the daughter of a minor Lord, but because she was a scholar. A woman that thought for herself with a gifted mind. Indeed he was not angry at Gustav and mush less at Henriette who was a kindhearted and intelligent woman. He was grateful to them for bringing his wife to him. Without them he would had met her later in life when he would be married to another and she would be… and he knew he would have fallen in love with her nonetheless.

==No. I will not think about that…it is done and I have a family…a wonderful family I will fight to keep, no matter what or who is in my way. Besides…it is a war. The King may yet suffer an accidental death…==

The Royal Army was finally outside the walls of the fortress. It had taken them days to get there with all the hindrances they had to face beforehand. When they got there and the fortress was in their view the Southern Gate was already down and a portion of the wall was breached. That they had lasted this long, was a miracle in itself. Alfonse was sure Henriette had given the sacred weapon to Bel. Even if she did not tell her the truth, Bel could use the weapon to defend the fortress and Henriette was a great and powerful mage.

The King rode into battle with the passion of young man. He wanted to reach the fortress as soon as possible after he saw it had been overrun.

What they failed to see was that Hel herself was in the place and was systematically killing each human in her path. It was as if she was searching for someone and was not in a hurry.

Before going out full force against her, the King took a moment to gather around with the some priests and mages. Later he talked to the commanders to assign their points of attack. Neither Alfonse nor Gustav learned what the King had talked about with the group of priests and mages. Still Gustav knew something and he told Alfonse as they prepared to ride again.

-There is a ritual that can seal her again. Henriette found it. It was in King Lif’s study. The problem is that it can only be done once every one hundred years.

-Can it be broken again by the Hel Cult?

-No this soon. It would take them at least five hundred years to weaken it enough. I do not remember all the details. I gave the book to the priests when we learned the door was opened.

-Is there no other way to open it?

-Only by the one who seals it.

-Good. At last we can see the light. If we survive this, I will give Henriette that book from the world of Mystery she wants so much.- Said Alfonse smiling for the first time in days.

It was early afternoon when they broke the ranks of the undead to get to the fortress. Hel, who was not paying attention to them turned then as if to welcome them. She left the soldiers who had been captured from inside the castle to redirect her attack towards them.

She hovered as if on a thick fog and all around her, skulls and skeletons reached out to tear and scratch at the living. In her wake she left a foul miasma of death and air as cold as the graves. Her laughter chilled their bones to a point where Alfonse could see some of the soldiers falter and some right out escape running. There was nowhere to go and they would not make it far. Alfonse knew they were surrounded. Still they kept their futile march. The dead could not really die again could they? They never stayed “dead” long. It was a never ending battle and every soldier who died would join their ranks.

Still the King marched on and Alfonse fueled by hatred and rage followed.

In a normal battle Alfonse would be the one giving the orders. He was always the highest ranking officer and Chief strategist, so it was a setback for him to wait for the King to order them around and a hassle to make suggestions to the man during the battles. Especially after the hatred he had come to feel for the man. Alfonse was very frustrated by the King’s commands. It was as if he was aiming to win no matter the cost of human life and it felt to Alfonse like a suicide mission. At this realization Alfonse had an idea.

- Gustav!! Do you know if that ritual requires a sacrifice?

-What?

-A sacrifice Gustav! Does it require one?

- I do not know cousin!….- Gustav took a moment to strike at a couple of the dead.- What is on your mind?

-The course of actions the King takes are suicidal. They lack direction and strategy! He listens to no one!

-I see what you mean! You do not think he wants to…

-Most likely!

- A death for Glory and Kingdom….so like my father!- Said Gustav and growled in annoyance. The truth is that Gustav thought his father wanted to look like a hero himself.

They both hurried on to catch on with the King who seemed to be making it straight to Hel. It took them a while to get to where he was fighting a group undead.

The grounds of the Summer Palace was vast and the compound itself consisted of various buildings but the castle itself with its two towers had numerous gardens, forest areas on the sides and the main gate at the south side. This gate had a long road surrounded by tall trees that led to the entrance.

Gustav could see the damage done to his favorite home by the horde and Hel. There were unrounded trees, and others that looked like they had been blasted by magic. Some of the trees were on fire. There were holes on the grass and cobbled paths as if from explosions and numerous bodies; some unmoving and some still alive littered the ground.

To the sides he could see tents where he supposed the army soldiers had been staying. Everything was in pieces or on fire. On his right side where the destruction seemed greater; all the trees by the path had been fallen and he was able to see part of the ground floor. There were holes on the walls of the building and if he could remember correctly; that was around the place the music room was located. He hoped to Askr no one was in there at the time.

Alfonse got his attention back. A distraction like this could cost him his life at this moment. He looked at his cousin and he pointed at a place to wards the front where the King had halted followed by Alfonse’s father.

They heard the laughter of a woman; terrifyingly loud and cruel. A man had come running and was talking to the King and Earl Andreas. The King turned around as if looking for someone. He spotted Gustav and Alfonse and suddenly he charged again in the direction of Hel.

Alfonse cursed and followed after Gustav who ran to catch up to his father. They had to do something. Alfonse was too angry to think of what to do and to be honest with himself he did not mind one bit if the King offered himself on a silver platter to Hel as a sacrifice. The only setback was he would be view as a martyr and a hero. As much as this annoyed him, he was fine with it as long as his family was saved.

They finally got to the entrance where Hel was waiting for them. Alfonse had heard the tales about Hel. He had read half her face was bones, but he never expected her to be more bone than flesh and much less for her to be made of that crystalline substance. Or for the soft lilac light radiating from her. If it had been someone else, it would perhaps look beautiful, but her bones being visible,her cruel laugh, the tattered dress, the cruel scythe and the smell of death itself made the whole picture revolting.

Lord Andreas stopped and looked around. Alfonse heard him suggest a curse of action on how to attack but it fell on deaf ears as the King made to attack directly. Gustav followed and Alfonse came after him.

-You will not end my line witch!- Cried the King.

- I do not come for you fool! The King is mine to kill and so will be his hero…The Kingdom will fall after.

So it was true. Hel came for Gustav’s son and Bel. Did the woman even know the boy was ten years old? Did she even care? Those were the thoughts passing through Alfonse’s mind.

Hel attacked them all swiftly and efficiently. Alfonse was aware of the soldiers around him fighting the dead but not daring to get too close to Hel. He could see why. Every soldier that had dared help them had fallen at her feet. Every mage that dared to get close, got surrounded by a large number of undead until they were driven back.

After a while of dodging and attacking, Alfonse realized Hel was more interested in Gustav and himself. He wondered if she even knew who the reincarnation of the King was. Could she feel it?

Alfonse saw it as if it had been on slow motion. The King charged and Gustav followed. They moved fast and Alfonse could see Gustav was trying to synchronize the attack. Suddenly the King halted before striking and backed away. Gustav not aware of his father’s retreat kept going and by the time he noticed, it was too late to back down. Gustav made to block the attack and the force of the inhuman attack sent him flying backwards. Alfonse understood then what was happening. The King was not offering himself as a sacrifice. He was offering Gustav.

Alfonse growled in anger. He understood now. In the span of seconds he could see the King’s plan. The king did not need Gustav. He had Alfonse and with Gustav out of the way he could raise Alfonse himself and manipulate him into doing what he wanted. He could also easily dispose of Henriette as well.

Alfonse was furious and since he was the one closer to Gustav he went to his aid. Hel was poised to strike just as Gustav was getting up. The dark blade sung as it swung down to cut the Crown Prince down. Years of being Gustav’s back up and almost his bodyguard made it easy to not think of himself. Alfonse jumped into the fray shoving Gustav out of the way and shielding them both with his sword and shield.

The shield held the first couple of trikes. Alfonse could hear and feel Hel’s frustration on her grunts and force in her trikes. Gustav rose and readied his axe to attack. In a moment Hel changed her stance and gave a backwards strike with enough strength to momentarily get Alfonse to stumble. Alfonse was still closer to her and when she moved again he had no time to recover. Her quicker inhuman reflexes gave her an edge on the two humans.

She struck again and her scythe cut through the air too fast to dodge. Alfonse felt the force of the upward strike hit him on the chest. The specter hit him with the back of the scythe. There was suddenly a pressure on his chest that almost did not let him breathe. He stumbled some more and as he fell to the ground he saw Gustav bleeding from a deep cut across his face. Gustav was trying to clean the blood from his eyes but Hel was ignoring him and everyone else. Alfonse tried standing up but he could only fall back down until his back hit a solid object. He looked down at the damage on his body. How could a blow to the chest leave him so weak? Why did he feel like a dozen knives were staving him every time he took a breath?

=Oh…I see…==

There was a gash that ran from the top of his abdomen to his collarbone and it looked deep. A steady flow of blood could bee seen leaving his body in a trail that glistened with the now dying sun. He looked up to see why everything was so quiet and found Hel looking at him and then at her hands. Gustav was on the floor. He had not seen him been hit, but he was moving toward him so he knew he was well enough to move. Alfonse’s father attacked Hel, but he was blown away by a single blow from the dull part of her scythe. She did not even bother to turn towards him. Suddenly he heard the voice of the king. It sounded so distant to Alfonse now.

-YOU FOOLISH HUMAN! YOUR DEATH DOES NOT SEAL ME, BUT IT WILL BRING ME PLEASURE!- Hel answered and Alfonse turned her gaze to see her move too fast for him to follow and throw her scythe at the King and behead him. She turned to him and Gustav and with a voice so chilling she added.- You come with me.

Alfonse looked up. He could barely feel his body now. The pain was gone and he wondered where he was. He saw hovering on top of him the branches of a big oak tree and remember.

He closed his eyes and he could see the day as clear as if he was there. The oldest Oak tree on the front garden. It had been a sunny day and he had come from the library where Gustav was showing him some books he knew Alfonse would like and had found Oly at the bottom of the tree looking worriedly at the nearest branch. Alfonse was climbing carefully upwards while a crying Sharena held on for dear life to one of the middle branches.

-Papi!!! Please come! Sharena can’t come down and Alfonse is trying to save her.- Said Olive running up at him.

- Where is your mother?- Asked Alfonse Taking her in his arms.

-She went to get a ladder . She is too short, but you can rescue them right Daddy!?- Laughed Oly.

-Of course my little Olive.- He said calling her the name she did not like and planting a kiss on her cheek.

-Daddy!- Oly protested and Alfonse gave a rumble of a laugh.

- Don’t worry Sharena. Your brother and I will save you. Alfonse please come down and take care of Oly.

-Yes Sir. -Said little Alfonse politely and jumped down the lower branch to stand by Oly who did not hesitate to take his hand in hers.

Alfonse climbed up and got Sharena who had stopped crying. He turned to see Bel in the distance walking fast with a ladder. He could have climbed down or even jump down but he decided to let her rescue them both, since she had taken such pains to get that ladder from the back garden shed.

She looked sweaty from the strain of carrying such a heavy ladder by herself while walking that fast. Her hair was a little disheveled too, but to Alfonse she looked the picture of beauty with that worried face and reddened cheeks. She was wearing his favorite dress and he was sure she was regretting it by now.

How annoyed she had been with his teasing her after he had come down and reminded her there were servants for that kind of work.

It had been such a beautiful day near this tree.

==Who would have thought I would die here…==

He thought. He knew he was dying. There was no mistake. He open his eyes when he felt himself being lifted and carried away and saw Gustav trying to reach out to him with one arm with the tree behind him. He was still on the floor, and some undead soldiers where holding him down. The oak’s beautiful green leaves painted by the red dawn was the last he ever saw as blackness took his sight, but in his mind; the memory of his beloved and his daughter dressed on those matching dresses he loved so much was the one that accompanied him to his death.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Gustav could not believe what had happened. His own father had try to sacrifice him for the ritual. If it had not been for his cousin he would be dead by now. He was trying to get back his sight. Hel had hit him across the face and blood had sprayed all over his face and into his eyes.

He opened his eyes expecting to see his cousin and uncle fighting Hel, but found her standing still, watching the palms of her hands intently. Her face was a strange mix of rage and bewilderment. His cousin was nowhere near her. He looked back and saw him sitting upright with his back resting on the thick trunk of the ancient oak tree. A quick look told him Hel had also reached Alfonse, but his wound was much worse and probably lethal. His face was the picture of agony and the once neatly cut grass around him was painted scarlet with his blood.

Enraged Gustav took his axe and charged at Hel now that she was distracted. He made no sound, but still she retaliated with a force far beyond his own. She almost lazily shoved him aside as if he was a mere annoying fly. Unfortunately she struck him on the side and he could hear and feel bones breaking.

He fell on his right arm almost on his own upturned axe that had flown from his hand with the force of the blow. He heard his uncle attack and saw through a haze of pain how he also had been thrown like rag doll to the side.

Gustav turned to Alfonse when he was trying to get up. There was something like relief on those eyes when he saw Gustav moving towards him. Even through the agony Gustav knew he was experiencing he was relieved to see him alive.

- Your time has ended Hel! Leave this land! I command you as the King!- He heard his father cry.

He did not know if blood had gotten on his eyes again, but at that moment everything had a red tint to it. His ears were ringing and he could hear his own heart and blood on his head as if it wanted to make it explode from the inside.

-YOU FOOLISH HUMAN! YOUR DEATH DOES NOT SEAL ME, BUT IT WILL BRING ME PLEASURE!- She answered him.

Gustav saw when Hel turned to his father and faster than he had ever seen any living being move, she beheaded him throwing her scythe at him and coming back to stand in front of his cousin once again. He heard when she ordered her minions to take his cousin with them.

His cousin was still alive and his face had a faraway look on them as if he was seeing something beautiful. Gustav cried then, from frustration and anger. If he lived through this, he would never forgive his father and much less himself. Gustav took his cousin’s hand in his, but it felt limp and lifeless ,as if his cousin could not feel him anymore.

He felt and then saw his cousin being lifter away. He held on to his arm. He was asking himself why Hel wanted to take him away. The man was dying any way. Why take his body too? But he would not let them take him. He tried standing up and holding on to his arm and fighting the dead off but there were so many of them; he was instantly thrown back. The dead were instantly on him. They pressed down so hard he could hear the crack of his ribs and screamed in pain. He looked up to see through the haze of pain, Alfonse being carried away shield and all.

-Alfonse!!! Alfonse!!!- Screamed Gustav as he watched his cousin being taken away. Alfonse was looking at the tree and then at Gustav. Alfonse looked almost calm. As Alfonse looked back up at the tree branches above, Gustav saw the life being drained from his eyes. His cousin that he loved so much and had hurt so much was dying before his eyes and he could do nothing to save him.

He could not take it anymore he tried fighting his captors off once more, but all of a sudden all of them started to disappear as if they had not been there at all. The only thing left of his cousin was his sword stained with blood on the ground by the tree where he had fallen.

-Alfonse!!- Gustav turned to Earl Andreas. He was on his knees with his hands covering his face. He had been held down by the dead while trying to save his son as well.

-Uncle…I…- Gustav did not know what to do. He did not know if his uncle would even want to see him after what had happened.

==It is all my fault! Everything! Alfonse!==

Gustav knelt down next to his uncle. He was expecting to be repelled by his uncle and he would understand it of course, but he wanted to try. He needed to tell him so many things he felt, but could not find words to express them. He felt like he was about to burst. He had never felt such despair, shame and gilt. He laid a hand on his uncle’s shoulder for a moment.

Gustav turned around giving his uncle space and while his face searched the field he could see his father’s corpse slumped over meters away. He balled his fists unconsciously as he was filled with rage and shame. His father had shamed them both and in that moment he wished he was the one who had died.

Gustav was not aware of the tears falling from his eyes, nor the knitted brows and anger in his face while he watched the broken body that belonged to his father, but he felt the hand touching his arm. He turned to his uncle and saw the man’s despair mirroring his own. Gustav embraced him and winced when his uncle touched his wounds. Around them the men were cheering and cries of joy, unaware of the pain and loss sustained by the two commanders. The ones closer were silently crying. The men all loved Alfonse.

- Gustav! You are hurt. - Said his uncle while he inspected his blood covered hand. Gustav looked down at his side and arm. He had a lot of minor wounds. They were deep but not on any vital part. Those where done at the end when he was being held down, but the one on his side was serious. His whole side was turning dark and blood flowed from it.

Now that the adrenaline was fading and his muscles were cooling down he was starting to feel the pain and he found himself dizzy and it was difficult to breath. He tightened his grip on his cousin’s sword. Its weight grounding him.

Gustav swayed a little and his vision blurred until blackness took him and he knew no more.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Lord Andreas walked to the library where he knew the survivors were. He had been told by survivors who had been rescued from the kitchen’s cellars, that the Royal family had gone inside the library to hide. He had had his time to break down while Gustav was being taken care of. Adrien had told the men not to open the library until Gustav was seen to; then he went inside one of the guestrooms and had broken down. He did not wish to be seen this way and he knew he needed to tell his daughter Bel and his dear Oly. He needed to be strong for them. After that he came out and ordered the men to tell the survivors inside the library that they could come out. By the time he walked to the library doors, they were already coming out from the hidden bunker basements. He was still not ready to see his daughter Bel and granddaughter Oly. He did not know how to tell them without breaking down himself again.

He tried to walk strait, but his own wounds were painful even if they were not as unforgiving as Gustav’s. He had bruised ribs and the blow to the head, besides various slashes and superficial cuts. He would have carried his son’s sword by his waist but Gustav had not parted with it even when he fainted. He had told the men not to tell anyone the news about the king passing or his son, so not one was talking about it.

-Lord Andreas Sir!- A voice shouted from behind him. He turned around to face the soldier.

-What is it?

-Prince Gustav. He is awake. He asks to let him talk to Lady Andreas himself…about…- The man faltered. It was no secret Alfonse’s men were found of him. He was a good man and a good leader who cared for his men. Lord Andreas nodded and bid him to walk by his side to wait for his family to come out.

Adrien found Henriette by the secret stairs. She was leading the people out of the bunker and giving the soldiers and healers orders. Adrien got close to her.

-Are my daughter and granddaughter well? And your children?- He asked Henriette.

-Yes of course. They are waiting to make sure no one stays behind.

-We saw the holes on the walls.

-Ah…We did have problems with that. The kids were there when they blew up the wall. Worry not. They children suffered some blows and scrapes, but they are fine now.- She added when she saw Adrien worry.- All thanks to our dear Bel. She had a clearer head than I and faster thinking. How are the others?

Adrien knew she was asking more for Gustav and he did not want to give much away about his son yet.

-The King was killed by Hel and Gustav was badly injured.- He knew she tried hard to please her father in law and he was ever a cold man to her, but he also knew her sorrow was legitimate when she heard of his passing. After all she did not know what the King had done at the end. At the mention of Gustav he could see worry in her face so he reassure her as much as he could.- He is being taken care of. He had lost consciousness after the battle.

-I see. Is Alfonse safe? How did you manage to beat Hel?

Adrien faltered a little. He cleared his throat and then answered.- Gustav gave the ritual you found to the priests. It worked.- Henriette gasped.

-That ritual…it…Oh …the king?..- Adrien avoided her eyes and shock his head in dissent.

-Al…Alfonse?- She asked with a broken voice.

-Do not let them know. Gustav wants to talk to Bel first.- Henriette felt like she could not breath.

-I…Yes… of course. I am…My condolences Adrien.- Henriette felt like she would break down. It was true that they all did not have the odds on their favor. Henriette did not even think she was going to make it herself, but hearing this was heartbreaking. They had bought their lives with Alfonse’s death. He was perhaps the one who should have made it through. He was the innocent soul who probably sacrificed himself to save someone else. She did not know how it happened, but she knew him well. Alfonse was selfless and protective. She knew that ritual required a true sacrifice. For someone to sacrifice himself to save someone else. Now she felt filthy too, after what she had been thinking of. Who was her to take away his family in order for her son to be happy? And now he was gone and his wife would be devastated and his child fatherless.

Henriette took a deep breath and reigned in her feelings the way she had learned to do from dealing with Gustav’s father. She could not break down now. There were many things to do and Bel could not yet know. She kept giving directions to the people coming out of the basement. When everyone was out Bel came out with the kids, Aleen, and Henriette’s chamber maid Deana. Behind them two soldiers Henriette recognize as the ones who were constantly talking to Bel.

-We are the last ones out Henriette.- Bel said to the blond woman, then looking at Adrien, Bel smiled happily.- My Lord!You are OK!- Bel went to hug her father in law but seeing he was holding his side , she stopped.- You are hurt!

-We all were hurt. May I talk to you?- Said Adrien. Bel saw him eyeing Oly and the kids. Bel was nervous now.

-Sure. Umm…Aleen, Feraht can you stay with the kids?-She asks and the two of them nodded.

- I will see to it that they are taken care of. -Says Henriette. She spies Alfonse opening his mouth as if to speak, but closes it. She knew of his inquisitive nature and knew he wanted to know about his father and uncle.

-Henriette. You should come as well. I will take care of the people and whatever needs to be done.

The kids were taken to Henriette’s chamber by Deana and the others. Alfonse looking back with knitted brows. When they disappeared up the stairs Adrien turned to Bel.

-Gustav is in bad shape. His injuries are extensive and he had internal bleeding.- Henriette did cry now. Bel took her hand in hers. She felt horrible seeing the ever serene Henriette this emotional.- He wants to talk to you daughter.

Bel looked up at Adrien questioningly. Why would he want to talk to her?- Of course. Where is Alfonse father?- She had taken to calling him father when Oly had turned two. It had been by mistake that she had called him father but the stern Lord had asked to be just that to her. He loved her like a daughter and so they begin to call each other daughter and father in the old way of his people.

-Come. It is imperative that you talk to Gustav first.- Bel nodded and guided Henriette to where Adrien was leading them. They were going to one of the first floor guestrooms. If Adrien was this worried about Gustav, then it must mean he really was in bad shape.

==Alfonse must be with Gustav or leading the men…Yes. That must be it.== Bel thought.

They entered the room and found Gustav on the bed. His armor and under armor had been taken off for his wounds to be treated. He was covered with a blanket to keep him warm and not succumb to shock. It was turning out to be a cold night.

At the sound of their steps entering the room Gustav opened his eyes and turned to watch them in silence. Bel stayed back to let Henriette approach her husband. Henriette sat on the bed near him and caressed his face while tears flowed from her eyes. She did not utter a single word and neither did he, but Bel could see so much being told by the way they watched each other. Even when Gustav’s eyes were almost swollen shut.

Bel turned away. She wanted to get out of the room and not watch them in such an intimate moment. She also started thinking of Alfonse. She really wanted to see him and be sure he was alright. That man always went out of his way working despite his wounds.

The moment did not last long. Bel heard Gustav’s usually deep voice call at her in what sounded like his throat had been scratched sore. It sounded gruff, gravely and muffled from under the bandages covering his entire face.From what little they could see of his skin it was all purple and swollen. She neared the bed and Henriette made to leave, but Gustav asked her to stay. She went to stand by Adrien and took a very deep breath that Bel could hear from the bed. Bel sat and waited for Gustav to talk.

The man on the bed had taken to look at the ceiling as if he was looking for the right words. Which was weird to Bel because Gustav did not say much but always knew what to say. It was beginning to make Bel worry. Again she was reminded of the request Henriette had made her swear. To watch her children if she died. Would this be it? Was Gustav so bad he wanted her to help Henriette care for the children?

- I want to thank you. The men told me how you helped Henriette fight off the dead and rescued my children.

- You are welcome, but you know I love your kids.

-I know you do and I know my kids love you back. I have had no time to get to know you or your daughter the way I should and I am afraid, that what you know of me..you probably find…odious.- Bel tried to say something but Gustav raised his hand to stop her.- I know my own weaknesses and faults… Bel…I do not know if I may live…but if I do…I am afraid my life has been bought with a very high price and I do not know how to…I will repay it…I am afraid there is nothing I can do to repay my debt.

-Wha…

-Hel…To beat Hel we needed to perform a ritual…I did not read it all and gave it to my father to perform. During our battle Alfonse pointed out that my father was not following any suggestions or battle plan…He…had his own idea and did not inform us about it. It was Alfonse who say it first, as intelligent as he is…emm…He said it looked like my father was on a suicide mission and I agreed. Especially after he was informed by one of the men that…argg…-Gustav gave a grunt of pain. The potion for pain’s effect was fading already.-that you were alive. The ritual..needs a sacrifice for it to be effective. My father was a good king Bel…good to the people that is…but his faith and devotion blinded him to everything else. To him I was a failed …a failed attempt for an heir.

-Gustav…- Henriette pleaded silently.

-How? I have only seen hard work and devotion to your people on your part!

-It was all my fault…I am sorry…- Henriette sobbed.

-It does not matter now…my father is dead…

-So he sacrificed himself?

-I am afraid that was not the case. My father wanted to sacrifice me…that is our conclusion to the matter. He strung me on until I was at Hel’s reach. Alfonse saw this…I did not. I was so focused on trying to help my father attack Hel I did not see him retreat from the attack.

-He tricked you…

-Yes. I was supposed to be the sacrifice.

==Supposed…==

-Wait…where is Alfonse?- Bel asked looking back at Adrien. The Lord was looking down at his feet.- Gustav?

-He saved me at the last minute. Hel only hit me on the face. He…He sacrificed himself to save me…that sealed Hel…it was Alfonse…not me and much less my father… He…

-No…no…I am sure he is fine…he…can’t be dead…he promised me…he…he promised Gustav…I…I need to see him…where is he? I need to…- She rose from the bed and walked over to Adrien.- Father!? Tel me he is alive…please…where is he?

- He is dead daughter…Hel killed him…and I could do nothing but watch…We tried to..

-No…Where is he … It…its not fair! Why?…why him? …- Bel was crying now and she was trying hard to compose herself but she was trembling all over and did not know what to do.-Can…can I see him?

-I am afraid…he was taken.

-What? What do you mean?…

-Hel took him when she was sealed.

-But then how do you know he was dead? He may still be alive?

-No. She killed my father and she was still standing by Alfonse…I saw my cousin die…as soon as he was gone…they all disappeared.

-And she took him? Why didn’t you all do something?

-We all tried daughter…we were held down by the dead…- Adrien said with tears rolling down his face.- Gustav’s injuries came from trying to save him…and I…I am afraid I was too slow as well…

- I am sorry…I …I know you tried father…

-The only thing they left behind was his sword…Here…- Said Gustav.- It is yours now.

Bel looked at the sword. She knew the meaning of passing down a weapon or what it meant to warriors. She knew what it meant to her husband and so she took it. The hilt was stained with blood and she wondered if it was his own blood. The sword was missing the sheath, so it was wrapped with white silken fabric with what she could see was the Askran crest.

-Why would she take him? So his soul would not go to Valhalla?

-All souls go to Hel…I do not understand why she took him if his soul would go to Hel too. She said nothing.

- How am I going to tell Oly?…She can’t even sleep right when he is not home…

Gustav watched Bel with tears falling from his eyes. No one could see it as swollen as his eyes were, but he was crying silently. What he saw was the eerie calm of a person bottling up their emotions…he knew what would happen once she was alone. He knew it by force of practice. He did that all the time. He did that when his mother died and his father chastised him for showing emotion. He did that when his father told him how much he detested his personality and how weak and emotional he thought Gustav was. He did that when his father told him how much he hated his marriage to Henriette but could do nothing because the people thought their romance had been romantic. He did that all the time his father had said that he was not enough and why was he not more like Adrien or Alfonse. Yet he knew he could not fathom her pain…if he ever lost Henriette, he was sure he would die right after.

-I…I need..I need time…alone…-Bel took a deep breath and walked out of the room. Henriette made to follow but Adrien held her back.

-Stay with Gustav. I will be close to her.- Adrien said and followed after Bel.

-Should we tell her…

-Does she need to know?-

-It was a mistake to not tell her from the beginning Gustav. There may be others…you know the legends.

-I hate to agree with my father dear, but it is true. I am afraid the time will come in the future. It will be Alfonse who will be tested.

-All the more reason to prepare now.

-You are right…but we wait a while…

-Also…I do not think we should tell her about…our Alfonse.- Said Henriette. She was feeling so bad about making plans to marry her off, she almost felt like it was her fault Alfonse was dead. She wanted her son to be happy but not at this price.

-I agree…I…-Gustav was cut short by the muffled sound of the most hearth wrenching wail he had ever heard, follow by the sound of unconsolable crying. And there it was. What Gustav had seen coming.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Through the years Alfonse had gotten better at reading people’s body language and facial expressions. It made it easier for him to know what they were thinking and so he would not get in trouble with his professors and caretakers. He knew there was something the adults were not telling them. He suspected his father was hurt by his mother’s worried and sad face. He also thought it was strange that his father wanted to talk to Bel. Bel looked worried as well, so he waited until Sharena and Oly were distracted with cleaning themselves to get out of the room and investigate.

He walked down the corridor and then down the stairs towards ballroom. On the way he heard a scream of anguish unlike anything he had ever heard. He stood still for a second unable to move. During those few moments a dozen different ideas crossed his mind. At first he thought Hel was back, but then he thought she would be laughing instead while she attacked the living; then he remembered the specter Bel used to tell them about that was like a banshee.

==Bel…that is aunt Bel!==

Alfonse ran to the direction he had heard the yell. He stopped short before going around a corner when he saw Adrien outside a room. He looked like he was crying. Alfonse felt something cold was running down his back and then upwards and his stomach felt funny. The way it felt when his teachers were angry at him or he knew he had displeased his father.

Lord Andreas whipped his face and walked away from the room down the corridor and around the corner where he knew the entrance lay. He walked silently towards the door his great uncle had been standing around and heard loud sobbing.

Was his father dead? Was that why he had called Bel and his mother? Was he saying his last farewell? Alfonse opened the door slowly and silently. He expected to see his father laying on the bed dead and was preparing for it; but he found the bed empty. He entered the room and followed the sobbing. Sitting on the floor, hugging a pillow was Bel. Her face was buried on said pillow to muffle her sobs and loud crying.

Alfonse knew she had not heard him coming in, so he could leave and she would never know he had been in there; but he found that he could not leave. He was worried about his father, but it made no sense to him that she would cry this much for him.

Then a thought crossed his mind. Uncle Alfonse would have been the first to reach the bunker and get them out of it and hug Oly and Bel. He was sure that if his uncle Alfonse was safe he would have been already here with Bel, instead of her being here alone.There was only one option and he did not like it one bit.

He took a deep breath and moved closer, there by her side was a sword. He had seen that sword before. It was Dainsleif. His uncle Alfonse’s sword.

Bel stopped her crying and as if sensing his thought about the sword, she reached for it. She untied the binding and took the white fabric off. There were tears still falling from her eyes. She stood up and walked to the window, still not aware of Alfonse’s presence.

Alfonse was rooted to the spot, watching without making any noise as she raised the sword to the level of her throat.

==It would be so easy==

Something like dread pooled in the pit of Alfonse’s stomach and he gasped. The sound must have woken Bel out of the spell because she lowered the blade and turned around.

-Al…Al..Alfonse…How long have you been there?

-I…I heard you crying. I apologize if I am intruding. I did not mean to bother you.

-No…you are no bother…come sit with me a while. How is Oly?- Bel said whipping her face on the pillowcase she had taken off of the pillow.

-Oly and Sharena were cleaning themselves before having dinner when I left. Is …is uncle Alfonse…

-He…he is not with us anymore…and your father was hurt, but he is strong. I am sure he will survive. He is two rooms from this one down the hall.

-I want to stay with you.-He took a handkerchief out of his pocket and offered it to Bel.

- Thank you. I don’t know how I am going to tell Oly…

-I can help you if you wish.

- I am sure your company will be very appreciated…I appreciate it. Thank you.-Alfonse did not reply. He just nodded and looked like he relaxed his body. He had been sitting up very strait and stiff. Bel passed an arm around him to hug him. He offered no resistance and let himself be drawn along her side. Bel planted a kiss atop of his head when she heard him sob quietly and felt his smaller arms cling to her.

Bel was not surprised. Her husband had been closer to Alfonse than Gustav had been lately. He had trained him and had been his mentor. After they had gotten married this had not stopped. In fact Bel had talked to him about how lonely the kids were and Alfonse had taken to visiting together more often. That was when little Alfonse was learning to play the violin and was having his first sword fighting lessons. He was five years old and her husband would take time to teach him both lessons when he could.

- I will miss him…

-You were very dear to him and he felt so proud of being your teacher and uncle. He was proud of you; you know. He wanted a son like you..and so do I…I will miss him too…- She felt his grip tighten, and he sobbed again. She had never seen him so emotional. Even when he was younger he always took care not to show much emotions when he hurt himself. It was as if he had always been told to repress his feelings and never to complain. She leaned her head over his own and started to massage him with soothing motion, taking care not to hurt his back and shoulder. She wanted him to let go and cry if he wanted to. It all had been so much for him. Sharena and Oly were too young to understand what he was able to understand of the situations and with him always trying his best to shield them from all harm, it was harder for him. He was expected to be mature and strong when he was but 10 years old and caring for his sister.

-Oly…Oly will be sad…when are we going to tell her?

-How about we give her this night…so she can sleep right. Tomorrow after breakfast will be a …I suppose a good time.

- That sounds right…I will be there for her…I do not like to see her sad…It is like seeing Sharena sad.

-Ah…I fe…

-Bel? Are you…-Henriette’s voice came from the door. She had barged in suddenly and stopped when she saw Alfonse sitting by Bel. Bel gave her a nod and waved at her. She had felt Alfonse tense up when he heard his mother’s voice.

- I am fine thanks to Alfonse. I …Can you give us a moment please?

-Of course. If you want so see your father you can do it son. I am sure Bel can take you.

-I will.- Said Bel and Henriette left the room.

-I do not want them to see…

-We can stay here a while…are you tired of seeing books? We can go read for a bit… or we can go eat something…- She suggested while she whipped his face with his own handkerchief.

-I rather stay here…can I hold the sword?

-Sure.- Bel handed him the sword and he let go of her to take it.

-Can I…keep it tonight?- He asked eyeing her. For some reason he thought she would be safer if he held on to it. He did not like the thought that had crossed his mind earlier.

-I…sure…just…do not clean it please. Let me wrap it up again…I do not want you to hurt yourself.

They stayed a while there talking and after some time Bel took Alfonse to see his father. She had told him how he looked, so he would not be frightened. A healer was in the room and Bel notices Alfonse wanted to ask her about his father’s injuries, but was too polite to do it, so she asked for him.

After that they left to meet up with Oly and Sharena. They were worried about Alfonse. He explained he had gone to see Gustav and explained to Sharena that he was fine, but had some injuries that had to be healed.

Adrien came to see them when whey were having dinner. He was looking for Bel and when he saw her so calm and collected he calmed down. He was afraid to be asked questions by the inquisitive Oly so he excused himself and left to rest.

-When is Papi coming back?- Asked Oly. Alfonse looked at Bel who was ignoring her on purpose. She seemed to be thinking about what to say.

-Oh…I am sorry. I was distracted Oly. It’s just that…I was wondering just how deep the basement really is. I was wondering if your mother would let us explore it.- She said to Alfonse and Sharena.

They talked for a while and every time Oly looked like she was going to ask something either Bel or Alfonse changed the subject or distracted her with something. She fell asleep from exhaustion and Bel took her to sleep. They were all going to sleep in Henriette’s rooms. The bed was big enough for the four of them and Henriette would stay by Gustav.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

-Apparently I am not the only one who can not sleep. -Said Bel quietly, when he found Adrien and Henriette in the front garden. They both were standing by the big oak where some months ago Sharena had been stuck and Alfonse had gone up to save her. She walked over to them. Henriette was crying and suddenly she hugged Adrien. They held each other while they both cried.

Bel felt numb…she had slept for perhaps half an hour next to Oly and her dream was a black void…She woke to the memory of her family…of her dead…it had been just like that…an empty void for months…

- Was this where he was taken?- She asked softly. Tears fell quietly from her eyes. This too was familiar.

==” Are all of you sure ? Dead really? What if… Is there a hospital we can call? The local police…” ==

She had not believed until she saw proof…and this time she would not see the body and she will always speculate…always wait for him to come back from that trip he went to…wait for a letter from Alfonse like she waited for that call back home that never came…

-Bel…I thought you were asleep with the kids.- Said Henriette.

-I…my…I could not sleep. Have all the bodies been taken care of?

-Most of them. They are going to be buried or cremated in the following days. Come daughter. You need rest.

-OK…It was here right?

-Yes.

-OK…let’s go to sleep…I will tell Oly tomorrow after breakfast.

-Do you have to?- Asked Henriette.

-She will be waiting for him to come home otherwise…it is cruel…She has us both father. We will do.- She said watching a darkened spot of grass and dirt by the tree trunk. She turned around before more than tears came from her soul.

-You are right. I will be there with you.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

Oly slept with the sound of rain hitting the windows, Her dream was sweet and happy. She was playing with Alfonse and Sharena and the day was sunny and bright and there were flowers everywhere. She felt so happy, is not for the ugly laugh she heard coming from the forest near the garden they were playing at. They all looked up and dark clouds covered the sky. When it was dark enough to look like it was nighttime and thunder ripped the sky apart; a light came from the darkness of the forest. She hid her face in her hands. Oly hated thunder. She had always been afraid of it and she wanted to run, but she could not move. She heard a cry and when she looked up Sharena was gone and the sound of her scream came from the forest. Alfonse lay on the ground, not moving…

- Alfonse! Alfonse!Sharena!- Oly screamed and cried but she could not move her legs and the thunder and lightning kept their savage attack, but she preferred it to the laugh…that laugh that had taken Sharena.

Sharena’s creams for help turned into a male blood curling scream of pain.

-Child of his blood! I will come back for you!!!

-Aaaaahhh! -Oly could not hear herself crying with the sound of the man’s creaming.

The three kids woke up in various states of distress. Sharena was crying softly while she threw herself to be hugged by her brother, who looked scared stiff. Oly was crying loudly while Bel hugged them all at the same time.

Feraht who was in the room next to them came running fast to their aid. He was confused when he saw nothing in their vicinity but the crying children. He relaxed when he understood what the problem was. He turned to the windows and saw it was a while before dawn.

-Shhh…you are safe here. I’m here with you. You are safe. It was a dream…

-I will make some tea.- Said Deana

-Thank you Deana.

-Is there something I can help with?

-Thank you Feraht. I think I can handle it. You should go rest, more. You have not been sleeping right…but before you go…have you heard from Aleen? Is Erland…well?

-She has yet to come back…Mam…May I…go pay my respect?

-Yes…of course…Take as much as you want…tell Aleen the same.

-Mami!!! I want my Daddy!- Said Oly.

-I want to see my Mother!- Cried Sharena.

- Sharena. Mother is asleep right now. She is staying with Father. We…we should let her rest…

-She has not been sleeping right. Let us give her some more rest OK Sharena. They are all resting. Why don’t you tell me what you dreamed of? Maybe by telling me the dream will be less scary. Who wants to go first?- Bel looked at Alfonse waiting for him to start but he looked pale and scared and just lowered his eyes to the watch his hands holding his sister’s hands.-Oly?

-It was lightning… and thunder Mami…y el Coco Mami but it was a woman…and she laughed…and she took Sharena and..Alfonse was on the ground…

-I dreamed the same thing!- Said Sharena-…She glowed pink…and her hair was…I..don’t remember…but she laughed and the man was screaming! Cousin Bel she was hurting him! Alfonse was on the ground…like he was …dead…

-Who was she hurting?

-I..I don’t remember…but he screamed…-Said Sharena and she shrank on herself and Bel hugged her closer.

-Come here I won’t let anyone hurt you or take you OK darling? Alfonse? Are you…

-I…I…I dreamed the sa…I dreamed I got lost…in …in the library…- He said, but evaded eye contact and looked almost like he was thinking what to say next.- And the books wanted to eat me…

-That sounds scary Alfonse. - Bel said but she knew he was making it up. She wondered if he only had said that to not scare the other two more.-Oly…it was raining some time ago. I bet you heard the sound. I told you el Coco was not real and it was used to scare little disobedient children.

-So who was that woman laughing?-Asked Oly.

-And who was she hurting? And why did we dream the same thing?- Asked Sharena.

-Well like I said it was raining so maybe you two had the same idea and we have been afraid for some time so it is very likely it was just a product of that fear. I mean we were inside the library for days so Alfonse dreamed of the library.

-Brother…did you really dreamed that?- Asked Sharena pouting.

-Sharena…I..-He started but when he saw Deana appear with the tea he changed the subject.- We better take the tea while it is still hot. Do you want some Oly? Sister?

The both of them nodded and they all got up from the bed and sat by the tea table.

Bel watched them sit down from the bed, then followed. They drank the tea in silence and headed to bed. Deana had slipped some calming potion in the tea for the kids to sleep. Bel had asked not to give her any.

Deana went to rest again. Bel turned to see Oly and Sharena were already asleep, but Alfonse was visibly fighting to stay awake.

- It is a dreamless sleep potion Alfonse. Do not be afraid of sleep.

-I…I dreamed the…the…the same dream…the man that was screaming…the man…he was…

-Alfonse?

Alfonse had tried to stay awake long enough for girls to go to sleep so he could tel Bel what he had dreamed, but sleep had come faster than he could handle. The dream was too important not to tell, but as he sunk into sleep it dissolved into nothing.

~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*~*

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